Mr Alexandre Olmedo, Political Counsellor on foreign policy and multilateral affairs at the French Embassy in South Africa took part in this workshop. In his presentation, he said: “The Open Government Partnership summit in Paris will involve around 3000 representatives from 70 countries.” Mr Olmedo also explained the three priorities of France: climate change and sustainable development; transparency and anticorruption; and digital commons.

In December, governments, academia, civil society and international organisations will gather in Paris to share their experiences. Paris will also push the open government global agenda in light of the great challenges in modern world.

Also attending the workshop were Mr Thokozani Thusi, Chief Director of the Department of Public Service and Administration, Ms Steve Letsike, Founding Director and member of the National Task Team, Access Chapter 2 and Mr Mukelani Dimba, Steering Committee (Civil Society) and Open Democracy Advice Centre Executive Director.

South Africa was one of the founding members of the OGP when it was formally launched on 20 September 2011.